Big Idea

• On July 16th, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will be available using the 988 number
• This can be used for thoughts of suicide, mental health, substance use crisis or any emotional distress
• People can call 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org
• Read more...

On July 16, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, will transition from its previous ten-digit phone number to the 988-dialing code. 

988 is a 3-digit dialing code for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, where compassionate, accessible care and support is available for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress — whether that is thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. People in crisis can call or text 988, or use the webchat available at 988lifeline.org. 

The goals for the Lifeline are to: 

• Provide immediate, confidential counseling to someone in distress.
• De-escalate suicidal or distressed thoughts; and
• Connect people with local resources, when appropriate.

The Lifeline is a network of 200+ independent crisis centers across the US and territories. These centers are staffed by trained crisis counselors who are supervised during every shift by a licensed mental-health professional. They adhere to evidence-based protocols to de-escalate feelings of crisis. There are also national back-up centers, Spanish language centers, and centers answering chats and texts.